The world of cleansers is plentiful. There is one for every skin type and condition out there, all boasting a plethora of hard-working ingredients and textures to help serve as the foundation of your skincare routine. If you're on the hunt for a new one, chances are you may be a little confused and we don't blame you, there's a lot to think about. There are cleansers for dry skin, oily skin, combination skin, there are cleansing brushes, cleansing balms and ones that foam or require a hot cloth. The list goes on. But spare a thought for oil cleansers.
While some may automatically recoil at the thought of cleansing with an oil, the magic of oils is that they work across the board, on all skin types and they do a fantastic job of cleansing. The right ones are powerful enough to break down make-up, dirt and debris, all while respecting the balance of even the most sensitive skin types.
'Cleaning oils work to attract oils present on the surface of the skin such as make-up, dirt, pollution and UV filters and will help dissolve them away faster than other types of cleansers,' says Gemma Collins, Bioderma’s Dermatologist. 'The physical action of rubbing a cleansing oil into the skin is also much more gentle as it's less abrasive and doesn’t cause as much friction, making it an ideal choice for those with sensitive and dry skin types. However, not all cleansing oils are created equal and it is important that the cleansing oil you choose contains mostly plant-based oils as opposed to heavy essential oils as this can potentially irritate some skin types.'
The Best Oil Cleansers At A Glance:
Best overall oil cleanser: Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Cleansing Oil, £18
Best budget oil cleanser: Byoma Milky Oil Cleanser, £13.99
Best oil cleanser for combination skin Epara Cleansing Oil, £45
Best oil cleanser for acne prone skin: Erborian Centella Cleansing Oil, £20.80
Best oil cleanser for dry skin: MAC Cosmetics Hyper Real Fresh Canvas Cleansing Oil, £36
It all comes down to types of oils encapsulated in the formulas. Oilier skin types prone to acne should opt for lightweight ingredients like grapeseed oils, while dry skin types in need of quenching will love heavier ingredients like olive oil. You'll be pleased to know they don't leave behind a greasy residue as the surfactants included in cleansing oils allow the oils and the substances they dissolve on the skin to be rinsed away easily when combined with water. They also make for an ultra-luxurious step in any routine thanks to their often rich, comforting texture.
How we tested the best oil cleansers
Formula: As with all of our testing, considering the formula is a great place to start. We noted the texture - did it feel greasy or nourishing? Was it comfortable on the skin or did it feel tacky or sticky? What ingredients are present? Do any of these raise red flags for certain skin types?
Value for money: Our whole beauty team are big believers that a premium price tag needn't always equate to a premium product. For that reason we've sought to include oil cleansers suited to all budgets. Those we've included with higher price tags, we've deemed to be worth the money.
Results: The obvious one. Do these oil cleansers really leave our skin feeling clean? Do some work better on different skin tones, types or textures than others? Did our skin look better in the long run?
Keen to give this once niche Korean skincare step a try? Our editors tried 16 cleansing oils, tested on various skin types with some of our favourite dermatologists weighing in with their recommendations.
Shop: The Best Oil Cleansers To Buy in 2024
1. Best overall
Gemma Collins, Bioderma’s dermatologist says: 'Bioderma’s newest innovation capitalises on the brands historic micellar water DNA and expertise. It is a cleansing oil with biomimetic ingredients such as amino acids and omegas 3 and 6 that are inspired by the skin cell’s membrane, and helps the skin make its own lipids in order to truly alleviate symptoms of skin sensitivity whilst simultaneously providing a deep, thorough and soothing cleanse at the same time,' adds Collins.
Key ingredients: Omegas and amino acids
Suited for: All skin types (including sensitive skin)
Size: 150ml
Fragrance free: Yes
Pros
- For all skin types, even the most sensitive
- Recommended by dermatologists
Cons
- Watery texture
2. Best for on a budget
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'Featuring the brand's signature Barrier Lipid Complex, as well as moringa seed oil, olive fruit oil and squalane, this oil-to-milk cleanser melts away all traces of makeup, SPF and daily build up, all the while supporting skin barrier function. I'm a huge fan of the packaging which stands out on the bathroom shelf.'
Key ingredients: Moringa oil, squalane
Suited for: All skin types (including sensitive skin)
Size: 100ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Affordable
- Moringa seed oil, olive fruit oil and squalane
Cons
- Strong smell
3. Best for combination skin
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'The formula fuses botanical ingredients, liquorice root and plankton extract together with ylang ylang oil, to improve your complexion, and brighten. The texture of this is creamy and light and it doesn't leave my skin feeling dry at all - ideal if you have combination skin. My only qualm is the smell - I'm not a huge fan of ylang ylang.'
Key ingredients: Liquorice Root Extract, Plankton Extract, Ylang Ylang III Oil, Moringa Oil, Marula Oil, Argan Oil, Frankincense Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil.
Suited for: Dry and combination skin
Size: 150ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Suitable for dry and combination skin types
Cons
- Not a fan of the smell
4. Best jelly formula
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'This hybrid cleanser goes from jelly to oil as you rub it in, which makes it much easier to apply- it's a delight to use. It boasts in a whopping 9 luxe oils, including kalahari melon, rosemary, sunflower and castor oils, which work to condition skin while you cleanse.'
Key ingredients: Kalahari melon, rosemary, sunflower and castor oils
Suited for: All skin types
Size: 100ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- 9 super oils
- Beautiful packaging
- Jelly texture transforms into a lightweight oil
Cons
- Need to follow up with a cleanser
5. Best for dry skin
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'Loaded with jojoba and sunflower seed oil, as well as vitamin E and Japanese peony extract, this antioxidant and vitamin-rich cleanser features a light, cushion-like formula that glides over my skin with ease, leaving behind a soft radiance.'
Key ingredients: Vitamin E
Suited for: Dry skin
Size: 200ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Pump head
- Plant-derived ingredients
Cons
- Not the best for oily skin
6. Best for acne prone skin
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'Soothing centella asiatica, also known as tiger grass – an essential plant in traditional Korean medicine – is the super-ingredient in this botanical oil-rich formula that transforms into a milky texture when it comes into contact with water. Despite its cleansing power, this oil is surprisingly gentle on my skin. It doesn’t leave behind any greasy residue, which is a major plus for me.'
Key ingredients: Centella asiatica
Suited for: Acne prone skin
Size: 180ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Doesn't take much product
- Soothing texture
Cons
- Smell is quite vintage
7. Best luxury option
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'A luxurious option that always feels like a treat. Bursting with vitamins and omega fatty acids, this blend of Japanese camellia oil (a rich source of vitamins A, B, D, and E, as well as nourishing omega fatty acids 3, 6, and 9) and the brand's proprietary complex of rice, green tea, and algae Hadasei-3™, is a fool-proof pick. Suitable for all skin types, it leaves complexions plump, petal-soft and deeply hydrated.
Key ingredients: Camellia oil, rice, green tea
Suited for: All skin types
Size: 150ml
Fragrance free: Yes
Pros
- Non-comedogenic
- Dermatologist tested
- Free from parabens, sulphates, phthalates, mineral oil and synthetic fragrance
Cons
- Splurge purchase
8. Best for replenishing skin
www.cultbeauty.co.uk
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'A matrix of skin-hugging ingredients like vitamin E-rich safflower oil, omega-6 and moringa extract make this a treat for skin that is exposed to daily free radical damaging from city living. I have sensitive skin, and this oil hasn’t caused any irritation or dryness.'
Key ingredients: Vitamin E, Omega 6, Moringa Extract
Suited for: All skin types/sensitive
Size: 140ml
Fragrance free: Yes
Pros
- Powered by three key ingredients: vitamin C, vitamin A
- Enhanced with anti-pollution technology
Cons
- Scent might be too much for some
9. Best squalane rich cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'Backed by the likes of Reese Witherspoon and Jonathan Van Ness, Biossance's cleansing oil offering is made up of the brand's sugarcane-derived, sustainable squalane oil as well as eight other plant-derived oils and extracts. It's lightweight and will quickly work to leave skin looking healthy and fresh. I really enjoyed testing this one.'
Key ingredients: Squalane
Suited for: Dry
Size: 140ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Antioxidant
Cons
- Thin and watery texture
10. Best for travel
Best for travel
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'This trusty little bottle is rich in grape seed, jojoba seed, avocado and plum kernel oils. A gentle massage is all it takes to remove every trace of product, leaving my skin feeling clean and refreshed. I find I don't need to double cleanse with this.'
Key ingredients: Grape seed, jojoba seed, avocado and plum kernel oils
Suited for: Combination/acne prone skin
Size: 147ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Omega-rich blend of grape seed, jojoba seed, avocado and plum kernel oils
- Lightweight
- Good for travel
Cons
- Can't see how much is left
11. Best soothing cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'The packaging and scent alone make cleansing a spa-like experience. Despite being on the pricier end of the spectrum, the powerful botanical, 100% natural ingredients ensure the formula feels top quality. The consistency is absolutely divine; not too thick and not too runny. Skin feels soft, supple and really clean after use as even stubborn makeup is gently whisked away.'
Key ingredients: Vitamins A and E
Suited for: All skin types
Size: 125ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Made with 100% natural ingredients (83% of which are certified organic)
- Scrubbing agents
Cons
- Pricey
12. Best balancing cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'This cleanser strikes the perfect balance; not too light, not too heavy. Its emulsification process is impressive, effectively lifting off my SPF and light makeup without leaving a residue. While I haven’t tested it with a full face of makeup yet, I’m confident it could easily handle the task, although I did need to exert a little more effort to remove my mascara.'
Key ingredients: Black rice
Suited for: Dry skin
Size: 150ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- 95% natural ingredients
- Rich in antioxidants
- Not irritating
Cons
- Need a few cleanses
13. Best natural cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'While strolling through a French pharmacy, I stumbled upon the Caudalie Vinoclean Cleansing Oil. What caught my eye immediately was its perfect Yuka score, emphasising its clean ingredients. This cleansing oil boasts 100% natural origin ingredients, making it a great choice for those seeking a gentle yet effective makeup remover. The oil itself has a light, milky texture that feels luxurious on the skin. It effortlessly dissolves all types of makeup, including waterproof mascara and eyeliner.'
Key ingredients: Almond oil, castor oil
Suited for: Sensitive skin
Size: 75ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Perfect for travel
- Nice scent
Cons
- Runny texture
14. Best conditioning cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'Just like the cult Elemis balm, this oil cleanser expertly melts away makeup and impurities without irritating my eyes. I’ve only started using Elemis products recently and I can finally see why people love them. You only need two pumps of the oil to remove all makeup so the bottle lasts ages.'
Key ingredients: Rose of Winter, Chia Seed Oils, Pomegranate Extract
Suited for: Sensitive/dry skin
Size: 195ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Rose of Winter, Chia Seed Oils, Pomegranate Extract
- Milky texture
Cons
- Packaging has changed
15. Best fast acting cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'The Clinique Cleansing Oil effortlessly removes stubborn mascara, making makeup removal a breeze. Its nourishing formula leaves skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after each use. It’s a must-have for anyone seeking a gentle yet effective cleansing experience - and it delivers every time.'
Key ingredients: Glycerin
Suited for: Combination Oily, Dry, Oily, Very Dry
Size: 200ml
Fragrance free: No (but there is a fragrance free option)
Pros
- Ophthalmologist tested
- Lightweight
- Combination Oily, Dry, Oily, Very Dry
Cons
- Fragrance but now there is a fragrance-free option
16. Best everyday cleansing oil
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer says: 'This does a fantastic job of removing makeup and SPF, it leaves my skin feeling fresh and new. Enriched with Rosehip Fruit Extract and a cocktail of nourishing Omegas 3, 6, and 9, it not only cleanses but also nourishes and protects, unveiling a radiant complexion.'
Key ingredients: Rosehip and various omegas
Suited for: All skin
Size: 100ml
Fragrance free: No
Pros
- Suitable for vegans and cruelty-free
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- The dispenser
Cleansing Oil FAQs
What skin types benefit from a cleansing oil?
Cleansing oils are extremely versatile and suitable for a variety of skin types. Being oil-based, they are particularly effective for those with dry or dehydrated skin, as they help to dissolve and remove makeup and impurities without stripping the skin. 'They are a good option for cleansing sensitive skin,' says Dr. Michéle Sayag, allergist and Bioderma medical strategy director. 'It's frictionless meaning it won't further irritate the skin.' However, individuals with oily or combination skin can also benefit from cleansing oils, as they can help to balance oil production and prevent over-drying of the skin.
How do you use cleansing oils?
Rachael Martin, Grazia's beauty editor, says: 'Using a cleansing oil is a straightforward process - I should know, I use one every evening as part of my routine. Simply start with dry hands and a dry face. Dispense a small amount of the cleansing oil into your palm and gently massage it onto your dry skin using circular motions focussing on areas with makeup. Then, add a small amount of water to emulsify the oil, continuing to massage the skin. Finally, rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove the oil along with the dissolved makeup and impurities.'
How often should you use one?
For most people, using a cleansing oil once a day, preferably in the evening in order to remove makeup and impurities accumulated throughout the day, is sufficient. However, some may prefer to use it twice daily for a thorough cleanse in the morning and evening. It’s essential to listen to your skin and adjust the frequency based on how your skin responds. Overuse can potentially lead to over-drying or irritation, so it’s essential to find the right balance for your skin type.
Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's Beauty Writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral)